Dr. Don Lee (2016)

For the last forty-seven years, Dr. Donald Lee has been associated with Luther College as a member of the Board of Regents (1968-1985 and 2007-2015), a parent of three alumni, and as President of the College from 1986-1991. Throughout this time, he has consistently modelled service and dedication to Luther College.

In 1968, Don joined the Board of Regents at a time when the College faced the arduous challenge of establishing a federated college with the University of Saskatchewan. Don was instrumental in helping the College lay the groundwork for this ambitious undertaking. As a professor of Chemistry at what is now the University of Regina, Don’s internal knowledge regarding the operation of the University and his strong working relationships with University faculty and staff were invaluable. It is therefore most appropriate that Don was listed as one of the four founding members on the “Act to Incorporate Luther College, Regina” which legally incorporated the College when it established its University campus in 1969.

Both Don and his wife, Marilyn, were very involved with Luther College High School when their children, Wendy (HS’78), Eric (HS’80), and Rebecca (HS’85) attended the school. They attended many school events and served on the Parents’ Council. Don felt that the Council was important because it helped maintain strong communication between the parents and senior administration of the school.

Don became President of Luther College in 1986 and was uniquely qualified for this position as he had an intimate understanding and appreciation of both the High School and University campuses as well the University of Regina. As Luther was experiencing a time of growth, Don spearheaded the construction of badly needed facilities including a new science lab, art room, and library at the High School campus, and an entire new academic wing at the University campus, called the Morris Anderson wing. With the expansion of the College, Don also hired a number of additional faculty and staff, including Dr. Roland Miller who was instrumental in establishing the Religious Studies program at the University.

After Don stepped down as President in 1991, he became an extremely valued member of the Board of Regents, serving from 2007 to 2015. Although governing rules required him to leave the Board in 2015, Don has agreed to continue as an advisory member of the College’s Governance Committee. His institutional memory is flawless and highly coveted among his colleagues.

Dr. Lee’s dedication over the span of four decades is truly an inspiration. Luther College has been, and continues to be, blessed by his undying devotion and endless generosity of his time and talents.